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Get Ready For Your Western Australia Learner's Test:

Getting ready for your WA Learner's Permit or Driver's Licence Test? We've got you covered! It can feel overwhelming trying to decide where to go or what to do first in Western Australia. Should it be enjoying the city sights in Perth, taking the tree top walk in the Valley of Giants, or even swimming with whale sharks in Ningaloo Reef? One thing that shouldn’t be overwhelming is passing your WA learner’s permit test or getting your driver licence. We’ve designed everything on this page to make the process as painless as possible, putting everything you need in one place. Start with our practice tests, based on the very latest information from the 2018 Drive Safe Handbook. Once you’re comfortable with your scores on those, test yourself with our WA Test Simulator, our most difficult practice test. Under the “Driver’s Handbooks” tab, you’ll find the latest Drive Safe Handbook, Ride Safe Handbook, and Heavy Vehicle Operator’s Guide, so you can study for the specific licence you need. The FAQ tab will show you our WA Driver’s Licence FAQ, which has all the information you might need about how to apply for your learner’s test, driver’s test, hazard perception test, licence renewal, and more. We’ve tried to make it the information as convenient as possible. Good luck!

What documents will I need to bring when I apply for my Western Australia learner's permit?

Original Australian or New Zealand birth certificate (not an extract) issued by an Australian or New Zealand Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages (RBDM). (Commemorative certificates will not be accepted.)

Australian citizenship or naturalisation documentation issued by Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) or Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)

Confirmation/recognition of birth letter issued by an Australian RBDM

New Zealand citizenship or naturalisation documentation issued by Department of Internal Affairs

Permanent Residence Evidence (PRE) ImmiCard issued by DIBP

Evidence of Immigration Status (EIS) ImmiCard issued by DIBP

Residence Determination ImmiCard (RDI) issued by DIBP

Certificate of Evidence of Resident Status (CERS) issued by DIBP

Evidence of immigration status, including electronic visas, issued by DIBP

At least one of the following ‘Category B’ documents:

WA driver’s licence or learner’s permit card that displays the holder’s photo and signature (This document must be current or not have expired by more than five years.)

Australian driver’s licence or learner’s permit card not issued in WA that displays the holder’s photo and signature (This document must be current or not have expired by more than two years.)

Australian passport not expired by more than two years.

Overseas passport that is current (expired

passports will not be accepted.)

Consular photo identity card issued by DFAT

WA photo card

WA photographic firearms identification card

Document of Identity issued by DIBP

Maritime Security Identity card

Aviation Security Identification card

Parental identification and statutory declaration (A parent must attend with their child and present their current driver’s licence for identity verification.)

Two of the following ‘Category C’ documents:

Australian EFTPOS or credit card that is current

Australian bank statement or letter, less than six months old

Australian utilities account or notice, such as a gas, water, electricity or telephone bill, less than six months old

What’s the best way to contact the nearest Western Australia Department of Transport (DoT) Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) Centre?

Who can come with me for my Western Australia learner's permit theory test?

You can bring along anyone you’d like - but the WA DoT doesn’t have any requirements about bringing anyone with you.

Wil I have to get a physical exam in order to get a Western Australia learner's permit?

No, but the Western Australia DoT does require that you fill out their medical reports if you have a medical condition, or if you take any prescribed medications that may impact your driving ability.

Do I need to take a vision test when applying for a Western Australia learner's permit?

Yes, you’ll have to pass a vision test when you go to apply for your Western Australia driver’s licence. In order to pass this test, you’ll have to demonstrate that your visual acuity is at least 0.5 (6/12) according to the Snellen scale. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you can (and should!) wear them for your vision test.

Where should I go to get my photo taken for my Western Australia learner's permit or driver’s licence?

Are there any colours I should avoid wearing when I’m getting my licence or permit photo taken?

No, there’s no need to avoid any particular colour. Just wear whatever colors you like best!

Should I put up my hair when I get my permit or licence photo taken?

You should wear your hair in the same way you normally do - it just can’t be covering your face or eyes, since this photo is going to be used to identify you. So don’t be shy!

Can I wear makeup for my licence or permit photo?

Yes, you’re welcome to wear the same makeup you normally do. Again, the idea is to make your photo look as much like “everyday you” as possible!

Can I smile in my licence or permit photo?

No, the Western Australia DoT doesn’t allow you to make any facial expressions in your photo. They want to make sure your photo can easily be used to establish your identity.

What else can I do to make sure I get the best licence or permit photo possible?

Not much - just look straight into the camera and try not to blink!

I’ve sent in my Western Australia learner's permit application. What’s my next step?

Be sure to book an appointment to sit your learner's permit theory test. After you’ve passed that test - as well as a simple eyesight test - you’ll receive your learner's permit. As long as you’re driving on a permit rather than a full licence, you’ll be required to:

carry your learner's permit card or receipt at all times when you’re driving

display ‘L’ plates on the front and rear of the vehicle, and make sure they’re visible from 20 metres’ distance

have an experienced, fully licenced driver with you in your car at all times when you’re driving

keep a 0.00% Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) at all times when you’re driving

never use a mobile phone or messaging application when you’re driving

not tow a trailer or any other vehicle

I don’t see my question here. How can I find out the answer?

You can use our Beginner Driver Q & A Section to get a quick answer from our professional driving experts! You’re also welcome to send us an email: http://aussie-driver.com/contact-us/

What Should I Do to Prepare for my Western Australia Learner's Permit Theory Test?

What should I study for my Western Australia learner's permit theory test?

Where do I go to find study resources and tools for my Western Australia learner's permit theory test?

Use all three of the FREE learner’s practice tests available right here on this website, starting with the first one: WA Learners Practice Test 1. Just keep practising with our tests as many times as you want to, until you feel ready to take on the real DoT test! Any time you can get away for a few quiet minutes, just take the time to study the Drive Safe handbook a bit. Before long, you’ll find that more and more of the material in the book sticks with you.

Do I need to complete any formal driving classes before I take my Western Australia learner’s permit theory test?

No, the Western Australia DoT doesn’t have any requirements about formal driving instruction.

Does the learner's permit theory test include questions from the whole Drive Safe handbook?

Yes it does, which means you’ll need to read and understand the whole book in order to pass your test.

Where can I find a learner's permit theory test app for my iPhone/iPad?

We’re working on one right now! It should be available on the app store within the next few months.

Which topics are covered on the Western Australia learner's permit theory test?

The questions on each individual test will be a bit different, but you can expect your test to cover topics like safe driving, road rules, emergencies and crashes, driving law, and vehicle safety. You can find a lot of sample questions by browsing the Web - but a lot of websites will just offer a short sample test for free, then try to charge you for a full-length test. But there’s an easier way: Use all three of the FREE learners practice tests available right here on this website, starting with the first one: WA Learners Practice Test 1. Driving students agree that our tests have questions that are very close to the ones you’ll see on your actual Western Australia DoT learner's permit theory test!

Where should I go to find free practice quizzes for my Western Australia learner's permit theory test?

Where should I go to sit my Western Australia learner's permit theory test?

The only place you can take your permit test is at your local DoT office. Don’t forget to book your appointment by calling 1300 782 713 or using the WA DoT’s website: https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/contact-us.

What’s the best way to get ready on the night before my learner's permit theory test?

Just relax! That’s really the most helpful thing you can do. As long as you’ve studied your Drive Safe handbook and completed some practice quizzes, you should be just fine.

How can I be sure I’m ready to sit my Western Australia learner's permit theory test?

What do I need to bring with me when I sit my Western Australia learner's permit theory test?

Original Australian or New Zealand birth certificate (not an extract) issued by an Australian or New Zealand Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages (RBDM). (Commemorative certificates will not be accepted.)

Australian citizenship or naturalisation documentation issued by Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) or Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)

Confirmation/recognition of birth letter issued by an Australian RBDM

New Zealand citizenship or naturalisation documentation issued by Department of Internal Affairs

Permanent Residence Evidence (PRE) ImmiCard issued by DIBP

Evidence of Immigration Status (EIS) ImmiCard issued by DIBP

Residence Determination ImmiCard (RDI) issued by DIBP

Certificate of Evidence of Resident Status (CERS) issued by DIBP

Evidence of immigration status, including electronic visas, issued by DIBP

At least one of the following ‘Category B’ documents:

WA driver’s licence or learner’s permit card that displays the holder’s photo and signature (This document must be current or not have expired by more than five years.)

Australian driver’s licence or learner’s permit card not issued in WA that displays the holder’s photo and signature (This document must be current or not have expired by more than two years.)

Australian passport not expired by more than two years.

Overseas passport that is current (expired

passports will not be accepted.)

Consular photo identity card issued by DFAT

WA photo card

WA photographic firearms identification card

Document of Identity issued by DIBP

Maritime Security Identity card

Aviation Security Identification card

Parental identification and statutory declaration (A parent must attend with their child and present their current driver’s licence for identity verification.)

Two of the following ‘Category C’ documents:

Australian EFTPOS or credit card that is current

Australian bank statement or letter, less than six months old

Australian utilities account or notice, such as a gas, water, electricity or telephone bill, less than six months old

Employee photo identity card issued by state/territory or commonwealth government

Australian Defence Force discharge papers, less than 12 months old

Student photographic identification issued in WA

School report, certificate of accomplishment or enrolment issued by a secondary school in WA, less than six months old

WA Keys for Life certificate issued in WA, less than two years old

Australian or New Zealand RBDM issued marriage, divorce or name change certificate (Commemorative certificates will not be accepted.)

At least one of the following ‘Category D’ documents:

Letter from current employer showing residential address, less than 6 months old

Recognised educational institution letter from the principal showing residential address, less than 12 months old

Application fee of $72.40

Your Learner Log Book, filled out to show that you’ve completed your first 25 hours of supervised driving

How much does it cost to sit the Western Australia learner's permit theory test?

You’ll have to pay a $72.40 new application fee to get your learner's permit.

Do I have to bring my parents with me when I sit my Western Australia learner's permit theory test?

No, the DoT doesn’t have any specific requirements about who needs to come along with you.

What should I study for my Western Australia learner's permit theory test?

The Western Australia DoT recommends just one resource to study for this test: The Drive Safe handbook.

How many questions will my Western Australia learner's permit theory test have?

The test has 40 questions.

How high do I need to score to pass my Western Australia learner's permit theory test?

You’ll have to answer 32 questions or more correctly in order to pass.

What’s the maximum number of questions I can miss and still pass my Western Australia learner's permit theory test?

You’ll have to miss 8 questions or fewer in order to pass.

What are some mistakes that people often make on the Western Australia learner's permit theory test?

The most common mistake is one that it’s actually very simple to avoid, and that’s going too fast. You’ll have plenty of time to complete the test, so don’t rush and make mistakes on questions you know the answers to. There won’t be any trick questions on this test. Just stay relaxed, think about your answers, and you shouldn’t have any problems - as long as you’ve studied the handbook.

No, you can’t have any study materials with you when you take the test. So make sure you know your handbook front-to-back.

Will I have to pass a drug test when I apply for my Western Australia learner's permit?

Yes you will. Applying for the permit means agreeing to a test that’ll check for any alcohol or drugs in your bloodstream. If the test comes back positive, you’ll have to start your application process all over again.

Which Western Australia DoT is the easiest place to pass my learner's permit theory test?

Despite what your friends might’ve told you, there’s no such thing as an ‘easiest’ office. The only way to make it easier on yourself is to know the handbook, get plenty of rest the night before, and take your time on the test. There won’t be any trick questions. Just think about your answers and you shouldn’t have any trouble.

Where can I hear some stories about the Western Australia learner's permit theory test from people who’ve actually passed it?

Our website has some great success stories! Every one of them is written by someone who’s actually passed their test.

What happens if I fail my learner's permit theory test?

Don’t worry - it’s not the end of the world. Many people have to resit the test several times before they pass, and you’re welcome to keep resitting it as many times as you need to. Just be aware that you’ll have to schedule a new appointment and pay the application fee again in order to resit the test.

If I fail my learner's permit theory test, how long do I have to wait to resit it?

Who can ride in my car when I’m driving on a Western Australia learner's permit?

As long as you’re driving on a permit rather than a full licence, you must:

carry your learner's permit card or receipt at all times while driving

display ‘L’ plates on the front and rear of the vehicle, visible from a distance of 20 metres

be accompanied by an experienced driver holding a full (not probationary) driver licence at all times while driving

keep a zero Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) at all times while driving

not use a mobile phone, including hands free, hand held and any messaging while driving

not tow a trailer or vehicle

not drive within the boundaries of Kings Park

Are there any restrictions about where I can drive when I’m on a Western Australia learner's permit?

You may drive anywhere as long as you:

carry your learner's permit card or receipt at all times while driving

display ‘L’ plates on the front and rear of the vehicle, visible from a distance of 20 metres

are accompanied by an experienced driver holding a full (not probationary) driver licence at all times while driving

keep a zero Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) at all times while driving

don’t use a mobile phone, including hands free, hand held and any messaging while driving

don’t tow a trailer or vehicle

don’t drive within the boundaries of Kings Park

I passed my Western Australia learner's permit theory test! What’s next for me?

Congratulations! You worked hard, and it paid off! Now you’ve got to complete at least 50 supervised driving hours - 25 hours prior to taking your Practical Driving Assessment (PDA) exam, and another 25 hours after you pass that exam - during which you must keep a Learner Log Book. You’ll get this book from the DoT when you pass your theory test, and you’ll have to show the driving logs you’ve kept in it when you apply for your actual licence.

What’s the best way to get ready for my Western Australia practical driving assessment?

Review all the techniques and situations described in the Drive Safe handbook. Watch the DoT’s short instructional video called ‘Take Your Driving Test.’ Read through the DoT’s short booklet of tips for passing your PDA. Finally, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with all the components of your vehicle, and make sure you can safely perform basic driving maneuvres like turning, stopping, changing lanes, parking, and merging into traffic.

Where are the best places in Western Australia for me to practise driving?

The best places to start are streets that are familiar to you. As you start to feel more confident, work your way up to driving on less familiar roads, and in different kinds of traffic and weather conditions.

Why is practice so important for my practical driving assessment?

Your goal is not just to pass your assessment, but to learn how to become a responsible driver, right from the start. Getting behind-the-wheel experience will prepare you to pass your exam, and to keep yourself, your passengers, and your car safe on the road.

Where’s the best place to learn driving in Western Australia?

The best way to start learning is to drive on streets that are familiar to you, then branch out into different kinds of traffic and weather conditions. You can also practise with a driving instructor - they’re easy to find in your local Yellow Pages, or with a quick Google search.

The PDA focuses on the overall quality of your driving, rather than the way you perform individual skills. Your instructor will be watching your performance in all of the following areas:

Flow - how well you combine driving skills together

Look behind - whether you keep an eye on what's happening behind you by using your rear view mirrors and checking blind spots

Movement - whether you move smoothly when you drive the car forwards or backwards

Path - whether you pick the best track and stay on track

Responsiveness - whether you are aware of the hazards around you and respond to them appropriately

Signal - whether you let other road users know what you intend to do

Vehicle management - whether you do things like keep an eye on your vehicle's instruments while you are driving, use the steering wheel correctly and use the clutch and gearbox effectively

How difficult will my Western Australia practical driving assessment be?

Not all that difficult, as long as you’re prepared. The biggest difficulty to overcome is often your own nervousness, since you’re not sure what the experience will be like. But think of it this way: The whole test is only 35 minutes long. Just stay calm, drive safely, and do what your instructor tells you. As long as you don’t break any laws or put anyone in danger, you’ll do just fine.

What’s the best way to get ready on the night before my practical driving assessment?

The biggest danger is your own nerves, so just try to relax as much as you can. If you’re looking for some extra encouragement, check out this article - which is from an American website, but can still give you some useful ideas about your WA practical driving assessment: 7 Things NOT To Do The Night Before Your DMV Test.

What’s the best way to book my Western Australia practical driving assessment?

Can I bring someone along with me during my Western Australia practical driving assessment?

No, only you and the examiner can be in the car during the test. That’s probably for the best, anyway - it keeps distractions to a minimum.

What can I do to make sure I’ll pass my Western Australia practical driving assessment on the first go?

Just remember what you’ve studied, and focus on showing the examiner how safely you drive. The examiner will be watching your performance in all the following areas:

Flow - how well you combine driving skills together

Look behind - whether you keep an eye on what's happening behind you by using your rear view mirrors and checking blind spots

Movement - whether you move smoothly when you drive the car forwards or backwards

Path - whether you pick the best track and stay on track

Responsiveness - whether you are aware of the hazards around you and respond to them appropriately

Signal - whether you let other road users know what you intend to do

Vehicle management - whether you do things like keep an eye on your vehicle's instruments while you are driving, use the steering wheel correctly and use the clutch and gearbox effectively

What are some widespread mistakes to avoid when I take my Western Australia practical driving assessment?

As long as you avoid breaking any laws or putting anyone in danger, you shouldn’t have any major problems with your test. Just keep the following points in mind:

Never drive more than 5 km/h over or under the speed limit

Always check behind you as you merge into traffic or switch lanes

Come to a full stop at red lights and stop signs

Use your accelerator and brake pedals gently (This is a big one!)

Stay aware of what other drivers and pedestrians around you are doing

What will I have to do during my Western Australia practical driving assessment?

The PDA takes around 35 minutes total. It consists of 5 sections:

3 sections where you’ll be asked to follow directions from your examiner

2 sections you’ll have to perform specific driving exercises

Throughout all 5 sections, your examiner will be watching your performance in all of the following areas:

Flow - how well you combine driving skills together

Look behind - whether you keep an eye on what's happening behind you by using your rear view mirrors and checking blind spots

Movement - whether you move smoothly when you drive the car forwards or backwards

Path - whether you pick the best track and stay on track

Responsiveness - whether you are aware of the hazards around you and respond to them appropriately

Signal - whether you let other road users know what you intend to do

Vehicle management - whether you do things like keep an eye on your vehicle's instruments while you are driving, use the steering wheel correctly and use the clutch and gearbox effectively

Can I wear my contact lenses during my Western Australia practical driving assessment?

Yes, you can - and should! - wear them if you need them to see clearly.

Will I have to sit my theory test again once I’ve sat my practical driving assessment?

No, you shouldn’t ever have to take the theory test again.

What’s the maximum number of times I’m allowed to fail my Western Australia practical driving assessment?

The Western Australia DoT allows you to resit the drive test as many times as necessary until your learner's permit expires. However, you’ll have to schedule a new appointment and pay the application fee again in order to resit the the test.

Why are some people afraid of driving? How can I conquer my fear of driving?

There are a lot of reasons people develop a fear for driving - but most of those reasons come back to the basic idea that our brains are wired to detect danger, and driving can be a very dangerous activity if not done correctly.

Anything else I should keep in mind when I sit my Western Australia practical driving assessment?

The whole idea of this test is just to demonstrate to the examiner that you’re a safe driver. Focus on using the techniques you learned when studying your handbook. And don’t forget to:

I Passed My Western Australia Practical Driving Assessment (PDA)! What Do I Do Now?

I passed my Western Australia practical driving assessment! What are my next steps?

Great work! Practice really does pay off! As soon as you pass, you’ll receive a pass certificate from the WA DoT. Now you need to complete your final 25 hours of logged supervised driving before you can take your hazard perception test and apply for your provisional licence. During this time, you’ll have to keep yellow ‘L’ plates displayed on the front and rear of your vehicle. After you’ve logged your final 25 hours of supervised driving, your next step will be to take the hazard perception test.

What’s most important to study for my Western Australia hazard perception test?

The WA DoT website explains that you’ll need extensive driving experience to be able to identify and respond to hazards. So, make sure you get lots of supervised driving experience in as many different situations as you can before you sit your HPT. The ‘Responsiveness’ Section in the How to Pass Your Practical Driving Assessment book has some useful information about identifying and responding to hazards.

Where’s the best place to practice for my Western Australia hazard perception test?

The WA DoT recommends practising on the interactive HPT simulator on the learner activities and resources page. This sample test will provide insight into the skills you need before taking the real test.

What’s the format of the questions on the Western Australia hazard perception test?

The exact questions will differ from one test to another. The test consists of 28 video scenes. For each scene, you’ll be given one of the following driving tasks:

slow down

overtake

make your turn

move off

You’ll have to watch each of the video scenes and decide if, and when, it’s safe to perform the required driving task. To complete the required task, you simply click the mouse button - or if it isn’t safe to complete the task, then you don’t click the mouse button. Your recorded response time for each video scene will be compared to the required response time for that video scene. At the end of the test, you’ll be told whether or not you’ve met the required level of hazard perception.

Where do I go to sit my Western Australia hazard perception test?

How soon can I sit my hazard perception test?

You can sit your HPT 6 months after you have passed your practical driving assessment and your log book has been verified at a DVS centre or regional DVS agent. This 6 month waiting period is mandatory. You must have at least 50 hours of supervised driving experience to get your Log Book signed off.

What’s the best way to prepare on the night before my hazard perception test?

Just stay calm. If you want to focus your mind on something productive, try reviewing the ‘Responsiveness’ Section in the How to Pass Your Practical Driving Assessment book. Keep a positive, relaxed attitude, and you shouldn’t have any serious problems with your HPT.

How do I know when I’m ready to sit my Western Australia hazard perception test?

Sitting Your Western Australia Hazard Perception Test (HPT): FAQ

What do I have to bring with me when I sit my Western Australia hazard perception test?

Your learner's permit Your completed Post PDA Log Book - ensuring that your declaration of completion has been signed by you and your supervising driver Your entire Learner Guide and Log Book Your primary and secondary identification

What’s the best way to make sure I pass my Western Australia hazard perception test on the first go?

The only way to pass this test is to have real-world experience responding to driving hazards. The good news is that you’ll be gaining this experience automatically as you complete your final 25 hours of supervised driving. So practise driving in as many different road, weather, and traffic conditions as you can. Ask for lots of input from experienced drivers who ride along in your car, and pay close attention to the different kinds of hazards you encounter during your day-to-day driving. You can also practise with the WA DoT’s online HPT simulator at http://www.transport.wa.gov.au/licensing/learner-activities-and-resources.asp.

What pointers should I keep in mind when I sit my Western Australia hazard perception test?

The whole point of this test is to show the DoT that you’re a safe enough driver to handle your own car. So just focus on remembering the main things you’ve learned during your road practice. And also, don’t forget about:

Adjusting your mirrors when getting in the car

Fastening your seatbelt

Looking in the mirror and over your shoulder before merging into traffic

Keeping both hands on the steering wheel

Stopping behind crosswalks and limit lines

What are some frequent mistakes to avoid when I take my Western Australia hazard perception test?

The most common mistakes fall into 2 general categories:

failing to notice a hazard in one of the videos

not responding quickly enough to the hazard

But the truth is, you won’t need perfect sight or lightning-fast reflexes to pass this test. As long as you can avoid most hazards in your real-world supervised driving, you’ll probably have no problem passing.

What will I have to do during my Western Australia hazard perception test?

The HPT consists of 28 video scenes. For each scene, you’ll be given one of the following driving tasks:

slow down

overtake

make your turn

move off

You’ll have to watch each of the video scenes and decide if, and when, it’s safe to perform the required driving task. To complete the required task, you simply click the mouse button - or if it isn’t safe to complete the task, then you don’t click the mouse button. Your recorded response time for each video scene will be compared to the required response time for that video scene. At the end of the test, you’ll be told whether or not you’ve met the required level of hazard perception.

How soon can I sit my hazard perception test?

You can sit your HPT 6 months after you have passed your practical driving assessment and your log book has been verified at a DVS centre or regional DVS agent. This 6 month waiting period is mandatory. You must have at least 50 hours of supervised driving experience to get your Log Book signed off.

Where’s the best place to go to sit my Western Australia hazard perception test?

Will I have to resit my theory test when I sit my hazard perception test?

No, you shouldn’t ever have to sit your theory test again.

Is there a maximum number of times I’m allowed to fail my Western Australia hazard perception test?

The Western Australia DoT allows you to resit the drive test as many times as you need to until your learner's permit expires. However, you’ll have to schedule a new appointment and pay the application fee again in order to resit the the test.

I’ve passed my hazard perception test! What happens now?

Great job! You’ve finished your formal testing period! As soon as you’re finished, you should get a pass certificate from the DoT. Once you’ve paid the fee, you’ll also get your provisional driver’s licence. That means you’ll finally be allowed to drive unsupervised! However, you’ll now enter a two-stage probationary period:

First you’ll have P1 (red P plates) for six months.

Then you’ll have P2 (green P plates) until you’ve completed your novice driving period and have reached 19 years of age.

What are the limitations on my Western Australia provisional driver’s licence?

You’re now starting your two-stage probationary period, which will last until you’ve completed your novice driving period and have reached 19 years of age:

During this time, you’ll be subject to night-time driving restrictions: You won’t be permitted to drive between midnight and 5am unless the driving is:

In the course of employment, for the purpose of travelling to or from employment and by the shortest practicable route for achieving that purpose

For the purpose of travelling to or from schooling and by the shortest practicable route for achieving that purpose

Or, in the case of travel from employment or schooling, the travel commences as soon as is practicable after the employment or schooling ceases.

After that, you’ll have to display P2 (green P plates) until your novice driving period expires.

During your whole novice period, you must not get more than 8 demerit points for traffic offenses, and you must not drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of greater than 0.00%.

If you get more than 8 demerit points during your novice driving period, or you’re caught with any alcohol in your blood during that period, your licence will be suspended.

What should I know when driving in Western Australia for the first time?

You should know that the average speed limit is 40 km/h in areas with high levels of pedestrian activity, such as shopping centres; 50 km/h in most other urban areas; 60 km/h to 90 km/h on most arterial roads; 100 km/h on most freeways; and 110 km/h in most rural areas - unless other speed limit signs are posted. Also, watch out for bikeways (also known as bicycle lanes). Some streets have these special lanes for bicycles, and and you can get pulled over if you accidentally drive in one of them. And finally - hopefully this goes without saying, but don’t drink and drive. The police in Western Australia take DUI (driving under the influence of alcohol) very seriously, and you can lose that hard-earned licence if you drive with any alcohol at all in your bloodstream.

What’s the best kind of motor insurance to get if I live in Western Australia?

You should know that the Western Australia DoT requires that all drivers carry third-party motor insurance, which protects other drivers against damage or injury if you’re involved in an accident. But this kind of insurance is just the legal minimum - and it won’t cover repairs that have to be performed on your own vehicle. That means you may want to think about getting a little more coverage, so a wrecked car won’t wreck your bank account too.

What documents to I need in order to sign up for car insurance in Western Australia?

All you need a car and a driver’s licence. That’s it!

How much should I expect to pay for motor insurance Western Australia?

The cost of car insurance - in Western Australia or anywhere else - depends on a lot of different factors. Some of those factors are which insurance company you use, what your age is, how many people your policy covers, what kind of car you’ve got, and how clean your driving record is.

Which company offers the best deals on car insurance in Western Australia?

That depends on a whole lot of different factors. The best way to get the best deal is to do your own research, based on your own situation. Still, it’s helpful to know that some insurance companies offer student discounts, or give better rates to customers who’ve taken some extra driving classes. You might also be able to get a better rate with a lesser-known insurance company (although you should be careful to check other customers’ reviews of that company before you buy anything from them). One of the best ways to get lower-cost insurance is to drive a car that’s in one of the lower-risk insurance groups. Once you’ve done some research and gotten some idea of what these factors mean, just start calling insurance companies - or filling out their online applications - and see which one offers a deal that’s best suited to your situation right now.

Why does car insurance in Western Australia cost so much more when I’m a new driver?

The reason is simple: Approximately 50% of drivers under the age of 20 get a demerit, or get in an accident, within their first year of driving. For example, most new drivers have a tendency to drive over the speed limit, which makes it harder to control a car, and results in a lot of accidents that could’ve otherwise been avoided. In short, being a new driver makes you a bigger risk for the insurance company - so they want to wait a few years before they give you a lower price.

I Failed My Western Australia Theory Test, Practical Driving Test (PDT), or Hazard Perception Test (HPT)! What Do I Do Now?

I failed my Western Australia theory test, practical driving assessment, or hazard perception test. How long do I have to wait before I’m allowed to sit it again?

The Western Australia DoT allows you to resit any of your tests as many times as necessary until your learner's permit expires. However, you’ll have to book a new appointment and pay the application fee again in order to resit any of your tests.

I failed my Western Australia theory test, practical driving assessment, or hazard perception test. What should I do now?

The first thing you should do is get feedback from your examiner, so you know which areas you need to improve. Then go home and focus on studying those areas. You’ll have to book a new appointment and pay the application fee again in order to resit your test - but as soon as you feel prepared, you’re always welcome to give it another try.

I’m Planning on Moving to Western Australia! Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to do when I move to Western Australia from another Australian State or Territory, or from New Zealand?

If you live and work in WA, or intend to take up permanent residence, you must apply for a WA driver's licence within 3 months of becoming a WA resident. You can do this only at Western Australia DoT Customer Service Centre. You’ll need to:

I’ve got a learner’s permit from another Australian State or Territory, or from New Zealand. Is my permit valid in Western Australia?

If you’re driving on an interstate or New Zealand learner's permit and you’re planning to move to Western Australia, the WA DoT requires you to convert your learner's permit to a Western Australia equivalent. This will involve completing a WA theory test, practical driving assessment, and eyesight exam; and possibly other exams and assessments, depending on your exact situation. Visit a Driver and Vehicle Services Centre or Agent or call 13 11 56 for more details.

What’s the maximum length of time I can drive in Western Australia on an out-of-country licence or learner's permit?

If you are a visitor to Western Australia (WA), you may drive only those vehicles that you are authorised to drive on your overseas licence, for as long as it remains valid in the country of issue. If your overseas licence ceases to be valid during your stay, you must apply for a WA licence if you wish to continue driving. To be able to drive on WA roads with your overseas driver's licence (and international driving permit, if applicable), you must:

carry your licence (and international driving permit, if applicable) with you at all times while driving and show it to a police officer if asked to do so

comply with any other conditions of your licence

drive only those vehicles that you are authorised to drive

hold a current licence that is not suspended or cancelled (you won’t be able to drive on your overseas licence if you are disqualified from driving or your driving privileges are withdrawn)

Other Frequently Asked Questions About Western Australia Driver’s Licences

How old do I have to be to legally drive in Western Australia?

You’re allowed to drive in Western Australia at the age of 16 - but only if you’ve gotten your learner's permit, and if you have a licenced driver aged 21 or older in your car at all times. If you haven’t earned your provisional driver’s licence yet, you’ll have to wait until you’ve got it to drive alone.

How much alcohol can I have in my bloodstream when I drive in Western Australia?

The answer is, ABSOLUTELY NONE - and penalties are even harsher if you’re under 19 and are still driving on a provisional licence. During this period, you’re in criminal violation if your blood alcohol content is any higher than 0.00%. And even if you’re on a full licence, please, NEVER drink and drive. It puts you and everyone around you at a serious risk of injury or death.

I’ve heard people talk about ‘defensive driving.’ What does that mean?

It just means staying aware of the vehicles and pedestrians around you. In other words, it means staying on the lookout for anything that could harm your vehicle - or anything or anyone that your vehicle could harm - and being proactive about avoiding that dangee. Here’s what ‘Safe Practices for Motor Vehicle Operations’ has to say: “driving to save lives, time and money, in spite of the conditions around you and the actions of others”. Research has shown that 90% of all accidents are caused by avoidable mistakes on the part of drivers. You can learn defensive driving in a lot of driver’s education courses - but here are some ways in which you can start driving defensively, starting right now:

Maintain plenty of space between your vehicle and any vehicle that’s in front of you.

Keep watching your mirrors, and stay aware of what’s happening to the side, and behind you.

Drive under the speed limit - but don’t assume that others will.

And most importantly, NEVER assume that any other driver is a safe driver, or is aware of his/her surroundings!

Some people never get a driver’s licence. Why is that?

There are all sorts of possible answers to this question, and each person who chooses not to get a driver’s licence has his or her own story. Fear of driving is one common reason. Other people just never see a need for a driver’s licence, since someone else in their life is always doing the driving.